Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman

Khalid Al Mazroui, Mohamed Al Zakwani, and Nassr Al Zakwani are Concierges at the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, perched 2,000 metres above sea level on the Saiq Plateau, in Oman. The resort is the highest in the Middle East and amongst the highest in the world and is cradled by the soaring Hajar Mountains. Visitors are drawn by the breathtaking vistas of the rugged landscape (which you can see from your private balcony and pool), contemporary and Arabian design, a world class spa and pleasant temperatures throughout the year. Let’s take a look at this luxury aerie, and reportedly one of the best looking hotels in Oman, through the eyes of a skilled photographer and the hotel’s three Concierges…

The first thing that our guests ask for is the kind of activities that we offer, the hikes that can be done nearby, and how to best enjoy the naturally breathtaking views of Al Jabal Al Akhdar.

Favourite locale when enjoying a day off…

We usually enjoy driving together to a vantage point on the mountain and have a nice picnic.

Best coffee…

Omani coffee of course! With a hint of cardamom and a side of Omani dates. A staple in the Omani hospitality tradition and also available in our lobby.

Where we must go for lunch…

There is no better way to enjoy lunch than on the deck of Bella Vista, our Italian restaurant perched on the cliff edge overlooking the famous Diana’s Point.

It’s a rainy day outside but we want to explore, what we should do…

Even if it is grey and rainy outside, you can still explore the wonders of Oman in our library. It contains a rich collection of books on Oman’s history, customs and culture as well as an interactive screen filled with information and lovely photos. You can also have a quick exercise in the fitness center or try our experience shower and spiced sauna at Anantara spa. But don’t let the rain discourage you. If you drop by Diana’s Point, you’ll be welcomed with the sudden appearance of waterfalls all across the canyon.

An absolute must-do or must-see before leaving…

A must-do is trying our activity wall which offers via ferrata [a form of rock climbing using anchored cables, rungs, steps, bridges, and ladders for less experienced climbers], abseiling and rock climbing. Also you should indulge in one of our spa treatments that combine local tradition with world-class expertise. As for the must-visit, I would say the nearby villages with their farming terraces and rose water distilleries or the Unesco World Heritage sites of Wadi Bani Habib, Nizwa and Bahla forts.

What they love about their hotel…

Being the highest, five-star luxury resort in the Middle East is a perk of its own as we enjoy cool Mediterranean climate all year round. We also like the integration of indigenous Omani hospitality with the authentic Anantara luxury.

Anything else we should know about when visiting…

You should visit Nizwa souq early Friday morning from 7am until 11am for local handmade souvenirs.